Arthritis is a common disease that affects the joints and can cause inflammation, stiffness, and pain. Just like humans, our pets can develop arthritis, which can make it difficult for them to stay active and impact their quality of life. At Suburban Veterinary Clinic in Maple Heights, OH, we provide various treatments to reduce any discomfort your cat or dog is experiencing and improve its overall health.
What Causes Arthritis in Pets?
Arthritis can happen at any age, however, the main cause of the condition is old age. By the time pets are at a senior age, they've done a lot walking, running, jumping, and playing, which can wear down the joints. Some additional causes of arthritis include:
• Genetics
• Obesity
• Previous injury
• Poor diet or malnutrition
• Previous orthopedic surgeries
• Breed type
Symptoms
When a pet has developed arthritis, he or she will usually exhibit a variety of symptoms. Some of these symptoms include the following:
• Stiffness, especially after sitting or lying
• Limping
• Swelling around the joints
• Weight gain
• Aggressive behavior when sore spots are touched
• Muscle tone loss
• Lethargy
• Licking or biting
• Loss of appetite
Diagnosing Arthritis in Pets
Our vet will perform a comprehensive physical exam to check for pain points, swelling, muscle tone, mobility, and range of motion. Then a series of tests will be conducted to rule out other conditions and confirm arthritis. Some of these texts may include X-rays, blood tests, urinalysis, and CT scans.
Treatment
Once our veterinarian confirms that your pet has arthritis, we will recommend the necessary treatment. Your pet’s treatment may include corticosteroids, nutritional supplements, pain medications, or physical therapy. We might also suggest that you purchase a soft or orthopedic bed for your pet and install a ramp to avoid stairs.
Contact us for an Appointment Today!
If your pet is experiencing any symptoms of arthritis, our team at Suburban Veterinary Clinic in Maple Heights, OH, is happy to help. To learn more about our treatments or to schedule your appointment, call us at (216) 662-6117 today. When you need a veterinarian near me, we look forward to assisting you!
